Effectivity of patch test in determining the relationship between oral lichenoid lesions and dental amalgam: A meta-analysis

Abstract

ObjectiveThis study aimed to make a meta-analysis of studies which examined the effectivity of the patch test to determine the relationship between lichenoid lesions and dental amalgams. MethodsPrisma statement guide was followed for the meta-analysis. Electronic databases were scanned by 3 independent researchers. Funnel plot, Galbraith plot, and Egger Regression and Begg & Mazumdar Rank Correlation statistical analyzes were used to determining the publication bias. The odds ratio was computed through the Mantel-Haenszel test with 95% confidence intervals. 12 studies were included in the meta-analysis. ResultsIn the No improvement vs Partial healing + Complete healing model, the lichenoid lesions in the positive patch test group were associated with dental amalgam significantly (OR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.01, 2.07) (p = 0.022). In the No improvement + Partial healing vs Complete healing model, the lichenoid lesions in the positive patch test group were associated with dental amalgam significantly (OR = 1.92, 95% CI: 1.24, 2.96) (p = 0.001), too. Homogeneity was also identified according to the Cochrane Q and I2 statistics in both of the analysis (PQ = 0.826, I2 = 00.00%). ConclusionPatch testing is an effective method for detecting the relationship of oral lichenoid lesions with dental amalgams. Further studies should be done to support this hypothesis.